We managed to recruit some new blood this season! One of the pros (and cons) of being in an international community like ours, is that we are always gaining (and occasionally losing) our talent! Cornel is fresh to our school and our team and has embraced the sport like all his others! Read on to find out more about the New Guy...
1) How long have you been paddling for the HKA Dragonflies? Why did you start?
This is my first season taking up the paddle. I joined due to cumulative peer pressure from my colleagues, but after the first session realised I actually quite enjoy it.
2) What sorts of exercise do you like to do outside of dragon boating?
I am generally pretty active. I like to run, hike and also recently started doing yoga twice a week. I also work in a couple of sessions in the gym every week.
1) How long have you been paddling for the HKA Dragonflies? Why did you start?
This is my first season taking up the paddle. I joined due to cumulative peer pressure from my colleagues, but after the first session realised I actually quite enjoy it.
2) What sorts of exercise do you like to do outside of dragon boating?
I am generally pretty active. I like to run, hike and also recently started doing yoga twice a week. I also work in a couple of sessions in the gym every week.
3) What are the challenges you've faced while dragon boating? Starting the training season in one of the colder winters Hong Kong has experienced was not what I would call a fun or exciting start to dragon boating. Icy cold winds and even rain at times were miserable but the dedication from the team each week motivates me to keep going. Come wind or rain, we go for it! 4) What do you enjoy most about dragon boating? Apart from the physical benefits of the cardio, the camaraderie is great. I get to interact with a different paddle partner every week and of course there are some tasty hoppy beverages at the end of training. | The King of the Selfie |
5) What tips would you give someone considering taking up dragon boating?
Wear padded shorts. For some reason the makers of dragon boat seats hate the paddler's posterior...
6) Any last words?
Final thoughts, just go give it a try. It will exhaust you, but it will also calm you. I find the meditative effect of the repetitive paddling helps me work things out in my mind, to get rid of some frustrations. I feel both completely drained and completely re-energised after each session.
Wear padded shorts. For some reason the makers of dragon boat seats hate the paddler's posterior...
6) Any last words?
Final thoughts, just go give it a try. It will exhaust you, but it will also calm you. I find the meditative effect of the repetitive paddling helps me work things out in my mind, to get rid of some frustrations. I feel both completely drained and completely re-energised after each session.
Cornel with the rest of our team before another rainy practice in Sai Kung